FAQ

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

This page contains a variety of frequently asked questions that may assist you in deciding if our services are right for you and if counseling may be of help. Our answers are located directly beneath the question in each box. Just click the “+” symbol to reveal the answer.

If you’ve never been to counseling, it can be a bit intimidating! We will do all that we can to make the experience a positive one. On your first visit, it is helpful to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to complete the initial paperwork. Please be patient since there are a number of forms to read and fill out. To save time, you may download the forms from our website and complete them prior to coming in.

The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. It is important to get a clear picture of your situation so that we can decide what you are hoping to accomplish in counseling. We will ask you about your present concerns as well as gathering information about your family and work history. You will need to assess your comfort level with your therapist. It may take some time for you to know if you and your counselor are a “good fit”. This fit is key to having a successful therapy outcome. If you find that you need a referral to a different counselor, we will gladly help you make a switch.

Sessions normally last about 45 to 50 minutes. Initial sessions may take a bit longer depending on the individual’s needs. We try hard to be prompt and typically schedule sessions on the hour. Ocasionally we may run late due to a counseling emergency situation. We ask for your patience, since we will give you the same time and attention in case you have a similar crisis in your life.

As soon as you know that you will not be attending a scheduled session, please call and leave a message. Even if you are only running late, a call is appreciated. We normally request a 24-hour cancellation notice (this enables us to call people who may be on a waiting list). We understand there are times when you cannot advise us in advance. Illness, car trouble, and babysitters can be unpredictable problems at times. In fact, we appreciate if you do not come to a session if you are ill. We do reserve the right to charge you (not your insurance company) if you have unexcused “no shows” and have chronic attendance problems.

This depends on several factors. Some clients meet their personal goals in 3 or 4 sessions. This is most likely if their problem is specific and there are few underlying concerns. Other clients may be unclear about their needs. Perhaps they are coming because they are not sure what is wrong, but they know that their life is not how they want it to be. A complicated personal history can take time to unravel. You and your therapist will regularly check on your progress and review which goals need more work. Once all of your goals have been met, therapy ends. Some clients opt to schedule incremental maintenance sessions to sustain their progress.

Counselors are obligated by law and ethics to keep what you share with us confidential. HIPAA regulations precisely outline how medical information may be handled and shared. There are specific limits to confidentiality, see our HIPAA form for in depth information.